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Learn all about Heart Attack Chest Pain
Heart Attack and Chest Pain: What’s the connection?
Chest pain is a common complaint that brings many people to the emergency room. While chest pain can have many causes, one of the most serious is a heart attack. If you experience chest pain, seeking medical attention immediately is essential, especially if you encounter other indications such as shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea.
Why Chest Pain Occurs Before a Heart Attack
Chest pain is often caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. The heart muscle needs a constant supply of oxygen-rich blood to function correctly. When there is a blockage in one or more coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, the heart muscle may not receive enough oxygen. It can cause chest pain, also known as angina.
Angina can occur during physical activity, emotional stress, or after a large meal. It typically lasts a few minutes and is relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. Angina is a warning sign that the heart is not getting enough oxygen and may be at risk for a heart attack.
Heart Attack Symptoms
The symptoms of a heart attack can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include the following:
Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Nausea or vomiting
Sweating
Pain in the arms, neck, jaw,
shoulder, or back
Lightheadedness or dizziness
If you experience any of these symptoms, seeking medical attention right away is important. A heart attack is a medical emergency; early treatment can save your life.
Is Heart Attack Chest Pain Different from Other Chest Pain?
Heart attack chest pain can feel different from other types of chest pain. It’s often described as a tight, squeezing, or pressure-like sensation in the chest that may radiate to other body areas. Some people describe it as if an elephant is sitting on their chest.
Other types of chest pain may feel sharp, stabbing, burning, or dull. They may be related to acid reflux, pneumonia, or a pulled muscle. Chest pain associated with a heart attack comes related to other symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, and nausea.
However, it’s important to note that not everyone with a heart attack experiences chest pain. Women, older adults, and people with diabetes may experience atypical symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back.
Understanding the differences between heart attack chest pain and other types of chest pain can help you recognize the symptoms and seek prompt medical attention if necessary. Suppose you have risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease. In that case, you must talk to your healthcare provider about reducing your risk and preventing a heart attack.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of a heart attack?
The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or a burning sensation. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, lightheadedness or dizziness, sweating, and pain or discomfort in other upper body areas, such as the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach.
How is chest pain from a heart attack different from other types of chest pain?
Chest pain from a heart attack is typically described as a pressure or tightness. The pain may also radiate to other areas of the upper body. Different types of chest pain, such as that caused by indigestion or anxiety, may feel more like a burning or stabbing sensation and may be relieved by taking antacids or changing position.
What should I do if I think I have a heart attack?
If you are experiencing chest pain or other symptoms of a heart attack, call 102 or your local emergency number immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital or wait to see if the symptoms disappear. Prompt medical attention is essential for the best possible outcome.
Who is at risk for a heart attack?
Anyone can have a heart attack, but certain factors can increase your risk, including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, a family history of heart disease, obesity, physical inactivity, and age (the risk increases as you get older).
How can I reduce my risk of having a heart attack?
You can reduce your risk of having a heart attack by making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and controlling conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. It is also essential to see your doctor regularly for check-ups and follow their screening and treatment recommendations.
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Disclaimer: The information presented by Boston Scientific Corporation is for educational purposes only and does not recommend self-management of health issues. The information should not be treated as comprehensive and does not intend to provide diagnosis, treatment or any medical advice. Individual results may vary and hence, it is advisable to consult your doctor regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.
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